Bothy
Camasunary
Camasunary sits on a remote beach between Elgol and the Black Cuillin on Skye. The views across Loch Scavaig to the Cuillin Ridge are among the most dramatic in Scotland.
Quick facts
- Walk-in
- 5 km· 1.5 hrs
- Sleeps
- 8
- Altitude
- 5m
- Condition
- Good condition
- Grid ref
- NG517183
- Maintained by
- Mountain Bothies Association
- Fireplace
- Yes
- Water
- Abhainn Camas Fhionnairigh drains into the bay past the bothy — plentiful and reliable year-round. Fireplace available for boiling water.
- Mobile signal
- Very limited to none at bothy level. Occasional 1–2 bar possible on higher ground above the bay; not reliable enough to depend on.
- Dogs
- Dogs on lead on approachLivestock on approach
Our take
Camasunary might be the most photogenic bothy in Scotland. The Cuillin Ridge reflected in Loch Scavaig, a white sand beach, and a stone shelter with a fireplace. It is earned — the path from Elgol is rough and the midges in July are notorious. But on a clear evening with the ridge catching the last light, there is nowhere better.
Getting there
From Elgol, follow the coastal path north along the cliff tops then descend to the beach at Camasunary. Well-maintained but steep in sections with some exposure. Allow 1.5 hours. Alternative approach from Sligachan via Glen Sligachan (12km, 4 hours).
Nearest parking: Elgol road end car park
No approach GPX yet
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Stalking season / estate access
Camasunary Estate (privately owned, surrounded by John Muir Trust land on the Strathaird peninsula). Stag stalking August–October on the estate ground; the JMT land around the bay is unrestricted.
What to expect inside
Well-maintained MBA bothy with two rooms and a fireplace. Sleeping platforms for about 8. The location on the beach with the Cuillin towering behind is unforgettable. Fresh water from the Abhainn Camas Fhionnairigh.
Nearby hills
When to visit
Summer weekends are extremely busy — Camasunary is one of Scotland's most popular bothies. Midges in calm summer weather can be ferocious. The coastal approach can be tricky in strong wind. Spring and autumn offer the best conditions.
Wildfire risk — May to October
Dry conditions increase wildfire risk during summer. Never light fires in the open. Use the bothy fireplace only, and ensure it is fully out before you leave.
Current conditions
Condition unverified
We have not received a recent visitor report for this bothy. Check the MBA bothy register for current status before relying on this bothy as shelter.
Daylight Today
- Sunrise
- 04:28
- Sunset
- 22:22
- Civil dawn
- 03:19
- Civil dusk
- 23:31
NOAA Solar Calculator · 16 June 2026
Share your experience
Stayed at Camasunary? Help other walkers plan their visit.
Stock up at Portree
Nearest TripSCOT town for food, fuel, and accommodation if the bothy is busy.
Camasunary — common questions
- How far is the walk into Camasunary?
- 5km from Elgol road end car park — about 1.5 hours at a steady walking pace. From Elgol, follow the coastal path north along the cliff tops then descend to the beach at Camasunary.
- Does Camasunary have a fireplace?
- Yes — Camasunary has a working fireplace. Bring your own firewood; natural wood at most Scottish bothies is scarce, and burning bothy furniture or boundary posts is not acceptable.
- How many people does Camasunary sleep?
- 8 sleeping spaces — but bothies operate first-come-first-served and you may share with strangers. On busy weekends parties often pitch a tent outside if the bothy is full.
- Is there water at Camasunary?
- Abhainn Camas Fhionnairigh drains into the bay past the bothy — plentiful and reliable year-round. Fireplace available for boiling water.
- When can I visit Camasunary?
- Best months: May, June, July, August, September. During the stalking season (August-October), contact the estate before visiting.
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